Menelik Ekani

Menelik Ekani began pursuing blacksmithing while training in Japanese swordsmanship (kenjutsu) under 7th Dan John Evans. Menelik himself achieving 3rd and 2nd Dan in Nakamura Ryu and Kurikara Ryu respectively over the course of 6 and a half years.

In 2017 Menelik found a pathway into his chosen craft and started working as a professional knife sharpener for some of London's most successful high end knife shops, including Blenheim Forge. For over seven years Menelik has refined his knowledge of blades, their geometry, metallurgy, design and how they function.

He is a self-taught blacksmith and is incredibly passionate about everything he makes, taking inspiration from many sources. But ultimately Menelik specialises in blades and seeks to draw on both his African heritage as well as his foundation in Japanese bladework to create unique and thought provoking pieces.